2011 Chrysler 200 Convertible Priced at $26,445

The Chrysler 200 convertible will go on sale for $26,445, excluding a $750 destination charge, when it goes on sale this spring.

That makes the convertible more than $1,000 cheaper than the lackluster 2010 Chrysler Sebring convertible, which started at $27,850. Both of those starting prices are for the cloth-top models. The 200 convertible will be available in Touring, Limited and S trims (late availability for the S).

The base trim comes pretty well equipped, including a 173-horsepower four-cylinder, six-speed automatic transmission, automatic climate controls, 17-inch alloy wheels, six-way power driver’s seat, leather-wrapped steering wheel with integrated controls and cruise control. Stepping up to a Limited model ($31,240) gets you the new 283-hp, 3.6-liter V-6, 18-inch wheels, fog lamps, Bluetooth connectivity, leather upholstery and a touch-screen multimedia system with 30 gigabytes of storage.

Both trims come with a vinyl top; a hardtop is available on the Limited and S trims. Speaking of the S, it will feature more chrome and better interior appointments. A six-speed dual-clutch transmission will come to the four-cylinder Touring models later this year.

This Chrysler 200 is the most affordable mainstream midsize convertible on the market, which is admittedly a pretty sparse segment now that the Toyota Camry Solara is gone. Coming close are the Ford Mustang at $27,145 and the Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder at $27,999, but both offer far less cargo and passenger volume compared with the Chrysler.

The latest styling and dynamic updates, along with added features, could make the 200 convertible a respectable player in this small segment.